Vin de France Chenin Blanc Les Plantes 2023 Château de Bonnezeaux

What kind of wine is it

Chenin Blanc Les Plantes from Château de Bonnezeaux is a dry white wine from the Loire Valley, made from Chenin Blanc grapes. It is recognized for its freshness, precise structure, and mineral texture reflecting the clay soils. The winemaking process follows certified organic practices with spontaneous fermentation and maturation in oak barrels; bottling is done without filtration to preserve aromatic authenticity and depth.

Where does it come from

The grapes come from the Les Plantes parcel near Prieur des Noues, in the Bonnezeaux–Anjou area, at the heart of the Loire Valley. The temperate climate with Atlantic influence ensures gradual ripening and maintains lively natural acidity. The clay soils provide volume and support, while the mineral aspect of the terroir gives the wine a clean, dry profile with a tense and persistent finish.

How is it made

Harvesting aims to protect the integrity of the fruit and its acid balance through meticulous selection in the vineyard. Spontaneous fermentation takes place in French oak barrels using wild yeasts to enhance the grape variety’s character. The wine ages on its fine lees in wood; prolonged contact with the yeast increases both complexity and stability. Bottling is done without filtration, in line with a handcrafted and organic philosophy.

Tasting notes

Straw yellow with golden highlights, a result of barrel fermentation and aging on the lees. The nose reveals pear notes, apple, and stone fruit with floral hints and a mineral streak reminiscent of wet stone and chalk. On the palate, it is dry, with well-integrated freshness and a slightly creamy texture; the sip is balanced, with fruity returns and a savory finish of good persistence.

Food pairings

This Chenin Blanc is an easy match for fish and shellfish dishes, where its freshness and savory flavors enhance the delicacy of the flesh. It also pairs well with soft cheeses, thanks to the structure provided by the clay soils and maturation on the lees. Typical local pairings include pike-perch in beurre blanc, oysters, seared scallops, and citrus-marinated white fish tartare.

When to serve it

Ideal for a gourmet aperitif and suitable throughout a seafood-based meal or with creamy dishes. Serve at 10–12 °C in a medium-sized glass to highlight its fruity, floral, and mineral notes. A short aeration in the glass helps define its aromas. The wine is enjoyable young for its vibrancy and has the structure to develop in the cellar, gaining greater complexity and a broader texture over time.